I AM the BREAD of LIFE

After the multiplication of the loaves the people misinterpret the event and seek Jesus, but for the wrong reasons.  Fascinated by what He had done for them, they were caught up by the thrill of unexpected wonders and failed to “see” the deeper meaning of His miracle.

Jesus asks them to look beyond the bread which man can eat and earn by the work of His hands to the mystery and meaning of His person and seek Him in the true sense.  “Seeking” Jesus means turning toward Him in faith as the one sent by God to bring the life of the Father to those who believe in Him.  Such faith is not something they can achieve or work for because it is the work of God in the heart of the Believer.

However, their faith still remains limited to a longing for signs and wonders, for a sign even greater than the one He had already given them. They ask for the Bread of Heaven which gives life to the world.

Jesus not only gives them Himself  through His life- giving word of revelation, but He is also the Father’s gift to them since He is sent by the Father on a life – giving mission to those who believe  in Him.  They are asking Jesus for this gift without understanding what they are really asking for.

Jesus says: “For the bread of God is that which comes down from Heaven and gives life to the world.”   Jews would all agree that bread coming down from heaven was already granted by God in the wilderness and was meant for sustaining the life of believers.  But the problem arises when Jesus applies to Himself the two components of His definition of true food and says: “I am the bread of life, for I have come down from heaven.” This is the very heart of the mystery of Incarnation.  For we who believe in Him, heaven and earth are reconciled in Jesus.

We receive Jesus, the “Bread of God” in Holy Communion.  He is real food.  Lord, give us this bread always.

God Bless,

Msgr. Powell